At least 60 people were killed and 30 seriously injured when a pedestrian bridge in India’s western state of Gujarat collapsed on Sunday, dumping hundreds into a river, government officials said.
More than 400 people were on the bridge over the Machhu River in the town of Morbi at the time of the collapse, local TV channel Zee News said.
TV footage showed dozens of people clinging to cables and the twisted remains of the bridge collapsed as emergency crews struggled to rescue them. Some climbed them to try to reach the banks of the river, while others swam to safety.
“At least 30 people were seriously injured,” said Brijesh Merja, Morbi’s minister and lawmaker. “Casualties may increase as rescue operations are underway.”
The bridge Historic 230 meters was built during British rule in the 19th century. It was closed for renovation six months ago and reopened to the public last week.
Authorities said the victims are mainly local people visiting The bridge for recreational purposes.
Morbi is one of the largest ceramic manufacturing clusters in the world and accounts for over 80% of India’s ceramic production.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in his home state of Gujarat for a three-day visit, said he had instructed the state’s chief minister to urgently mobilize teams for the rescue operation.
The incident comes ahead of elections in Gujarat, which are expected to be held by the end of the year, with Modi’s ruling party’s current term ending in February 2023.
Source: CNN Brasil
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